Get to know the vital car ECU
Car systems continue to develop. Technological advances have made Electronic Control Units (ECUs) increasingly used in various types of vehicles. Because it has a vital function, the ins and outs of the ECU are important to know.
ECUs in cars are present along with shifts in car operational systems. In the past, cars relied on mechanical systems. However, now most vehicles use an electric system.
No less than 80% of cars use an electric system. Therefore, the existence of an ECU is very vital.
What Actually is an ECU?
The ECU is a component that functions as the main electronic circuit in a car. Its function is similar to the Central Processing Unit (CPU) in a computer. Its existence is vital because currently many cars are controlled electrically.
Later, the ECU will play a role in controlling the function of the mechanical components in the car. The components it controls are actuators to replace mechanical systems such as injectors, VVT, Electric Fan, etc.
What are the functions of the ECU?
As the main circuit, the ECU has various functions in the car. It is not easy to mention them all, but there are several important uses that can be pointed out. Here are some of them.
â— Adjust the valve opening moment according to engine conditions.
â— Regulates the performance of the engine cooling fan.
â— Adjusts the opening and volume of fuel in the injector.
â— Set the spark plug ignition time according to engine conditions.
â— Set car key identification.
â— Turn on the car alarm when a disturbance occurs.
How does the ECU work?
Similar to a CPU, an ECU works by utilizing binary and analog data to perform calculations. This various data is used as a means of communicating with other devices.
The process starts from obtaining initial data. This can be obtained from sensors whose function is to transmit data in the form of analog signals. The sensor will inform you according to its task.
For example, in the injection system there is a Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor. This sensor will send voltage to the ECU with a certain value. The size will indicate how large the air mass is that passes through the sensor. Thanks to that, the ECU knows the mass of air entering the engine.
This data will be processed simultaneously with other data from the different sensors involved. The ECU then processes it to find the amount of gasoline that must be released.
The results of these calculations will be converted into voltage at certain intervals. Later this information is sent to the injector which will respond by opening the valve so that gasoline comes out. The opening interval corresponds to the time the injector receives voltage.
What are the Types of ECU?
As a control unit to regulate the performance of an electrical circuit in a car, the ECU is not just one part. This component has several modules according to their function and use.
In general, there are seven ECU modules in a car. The following is a further explanation.
â— Body Control Module (BCM)
The car body's electricity is controlled here. The performance of the lights, horn, wipers, and car entertainment system are controlled by BCM.
â— Engine Control Module
Special module for managing engine performance. From here the starting process, spark plug ignition, fuel injection and cooling are carried out.
â— Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
As the name suggests, PCM controls the work of the car's powertrain system. This module will regulate the flow of power from the engine to the wheels so that it is efficient.
â— ABS Control Module
Only available in cars equipped with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). This module controls the braking system to avoid wheel locking or slipping. Not only that, other systems such as the Electronic Stability System and Hill Start assist are also controlled by the ABS Control Module.
â— HVAC Control Module
Only in cars that have an automatic AC system. Through this module, cabin air circulation control is adjusted automatically to conditions inside and outside the cabin.
â— Transmission Control Module (TCM)
Only available in automatic cars, TCM is useful for adjusting transmission displacement and torque according to engine speed. This module also controls the transmission in harmony with driving conditions.
â— Airbag Control Module
The module is responsible for managing the operation of airbags in cars. When there is a collision, the Airbag Control Module determines whether the airbag deploys or not.
That's a picture of the ECU which is vital for modern vehicles. Understanding it will make it easier for you to pay attention when irregularities occur in your vehicle's system.